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Code Enforcement

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1. How can I find out about City Codes?

The Big Spring Code of Ordinances are available online or at the Howard County Public Library. In many instances a paragraph in the City Code book adopts another book. Those books should also be available at the library. Review the Big Spring Code of Ordinances.

2. What are the most common complaints that Code Enforcement investigate?

Overgrown lots, junk vehicles, and other hazardous conditions. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

3. How can I make a complaint?

1. Online: You can send your complaint online by using the Request Tracker.

2. By Phone: Call 432-264-2505 to file a complaint.

3. In Office: The Code Enforcement Office located at 217 E. 3rd St. You can speak to Code Enforcement staff to file a complaint.

4. By Mail: You can send a written complaint to Code Enforcement Office at 217 E. 3rd St, Big Spring, TX 79720.

5. By Fax: You can fax a complaint to 432-264-7024.

via email.

4. How will I find out what happens to my complaint?

A Code Enforcement Officer will contact the complainant after investigating the complaint. Typically, Code Enforcement Officers will call complainants, so please include a daytime phone number in your complaint. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

5. How long should it take for the Code Enforcement Officers to investigate my complaint?

Code Enforcement Officers will try to perform an initial investigation within 48 hours of receiving your complaint. Complaints are prioritized with issues dealing with the health and safety of our community getting first priority. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

6. What if I want to stay anonymous?

You may choose to stay anonymous, however, the department staff will not be able to inform you of any actions taken or planned. Often, citizens complain about a situation, which is not a city code violation, but have failed to give the Code Enforcement officers a way to advise them of such. The code enforcement officers do not disclose the name of a complainant with a violator when a complaint is addressed. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

7. How can I get my restrictive covenants (deed restrictions) enforced by the city?

The city cannot enforce deed restrictions unless they mirror city codes. Restrictive covenants are a contract between the homeowners in a specific area and the developer. The city is not a party to that contract. If you want your restrictive covenants enforced, first try your homeowners association. If one does not exist or they will not enforce the restrictions, any party to the contract has the right to go to the Justice of the Peace’s office and file a “Suit for Specific Performance.” The complainant must pay a filing fee and a fee for the Constable to serve the defendant. The complainant may request that these fees be part of any judgment against the defendant. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

8. What can I do if I disagree with a city code?

If you feel that a code needs to be changed, contact members of the City Council. If they feel that a code needs to be changed or to be removed, they can have the appropriate board review the specific code for possible modifications. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

9. How do the code enforcement officers attempt to enforce the codes?

When the Code Officer investigates a complaint and find the complaint is valid, they take pictures of the violation and return to the Code Enforcement Office. The officer looks up the legal property to find the owner(s). If the property has not been in the complaint computer prior, then the Code Officer will send the property owner(s) a letter giving them 10 to correct the violation. In 10 the Code Officer will re-inspect the property.

If the violation has been corrected, the Code Officer will close the complaint in the computer. In the event the violation has not been corrected in the allotted time, the Code Officer will retake pictures and send the property owner(s) a citation, at which time they will 10 days to contact Municipal Court and pay the fines. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

10. If the city abates a problem on my property, do I have to pay anything?

Usually when the city is forced to abate a nuisance or problem on private property, a bill will be sent to the property owner. If payment has not been received, or a payment plan has not been authorized, a lien can be filed on the property. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

11. Can the city come onto my property and abate a hazard without my permission?

Yes, under certain circumstances they can. If the hazard creates an immediate fire or safety problem, the problem can be abated and a bill sent with no other notice. If you have been notified to abate the hazard or other violation and you chose not to do so, the notice includes notice that the city can enter and abate the problem after a certain time has elapsed. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

12. How much can I be fined for violating some city code?

That depends upon the violation. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

13. Can Code Enforcement Officers file the same complaint on me more than once?

In most instances, each new day that the violation exists is a new violation, therefore, you can be filed upon every day that a violation is not abated or fixed. Please call 432-264-2503 for more information.

14. Can the Code Enforcement Officers enter my property without my permission?

That depends upon the purpose of the visit and the location of the violation. The curtilage area of a yard is open to all unless posted. In some instances, the city codes give the code enforcement officers authority to enter your property to examine for certain violations. In some instances a search warrant is required. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

15. Do the Code Enforcement Officers perform any other functions?

Yes. The Senior Code Enforcement Officer is charged with the investigation of environmental crimes. The usual investigation involves illegal dumping of solid waste but can include hazardous wastes and materials. They also perform courtesy safety inspections when power is turned on at a house or business. At this time they look for safety problems such as improperly secured pools, hazardous conditions or chemicals. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

16. Do Code Enforcement Officers have the authority to act outside of the city limits?

Yes, Code Enforcement Officers have the authority to act outside of the city limits. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

17. Am I only responsible for my property?

A property owner is responsible for the center line of the street to the center line of the alley or easement. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

18. How tall can my vegetation reach before I will get a letter from the city?

The City of Big Spring Code of Ordinances allows your grass or weeds to reach a maximum of 12 before a letter will be sent to the property owner. The property owner has 10 to correct the violation. At the end of the 10 the Code Officer will reinspect the violation. If it has been corrected the complaint will be closed. If the violation still exists, the Code Officer will send the property owner a citation. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

19. Can I allow my trees or shrubs to grow into the city easements?

A property owner must not allow their vegetation to grow into the city streets, alleys, or side streets. This can, and will create a safety hazard for traffic at intersections and in alleys. If a property owner allows their vegetation to enter into the public right of ways, the Code Officer will send the property owner a letter asking them to trim the trees or vegetation back. Property owners then have 10 to correct the violation before a citation will be sent. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

20. Can I have an abandoned, inoperative or junk vehicle on my property?

Under Article 3, Section 13-46 of the City Code of Ordinances, a motor vehicle is considered a junk vehicle if it does not have lawfully attached to it:

1. An expired license plate and sticker

2. A valid motor vehicle inspection certificate

3. Is wrecked, dismantled or partially dismantled, or discarded

4. Remains inoperable for more than 45 consecutive days

A certified letter will be sent to the property owner(s) to remove the vehicle(s) from the property. After the 10 a reinspection will be done by the Code Officer. If the violation has been corrected the complaint will be closed. If the violation still exist a citation will be sent to the property owner(s), for every day that the violation occurs. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

21. May I drain my swimming pool or pond into the street or alley?

The Texas State law states that no water from a swimming pool or pond may be emptied on streets, alleys, or private property. This is punishable by a fine up to $1,000 per day. Please call 432-264-2505 for more information.

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Fire Department

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1. Why did a fire truck respond first when I called for an ambulance?

The BSFD is a dual department; all of our personnel are trained and certified in both fire suppression and emergency medical services. The BSFD routinely sends a fire truck to assist ambulances because each ambulance only has two personnel on board. This procedure allows a minimum of four personnel on scene to assist with patient treatment, lifting, and loading. In situations where a fire truck is closer to a call location than an ambulance, sending a fire truck shortens the response time. Please call 432-264-2304, for more information.

2. Why does the fire department use water by flowing fire hydrants?

Flowing of hydrants is a vital function and is required by the Insurance Service Organization (ISO). The ISO sets the classification of our fire department in addition to determining homeowner’s insurance rates. Flushing hydrants allows the department to verify that each hydrant has sufficient water pressure to provide adequate fire suppression flow for that area. It allows us to detect and repair any deficiencies in the water system before it is needed for a fire. It also allows us to flush out any debris or other substances that are in the water lines. This prevents debris from entering the fire engine pumps; debris that can cause damage or disable the fire engine during a fire. Please call 432-264-2304, for more information.

3. I have seen ambulances and fire trucks that seem to be aimlessly wandering around town or just driving around. This seems to be a waste of taxpayers' money. Can you explain what is going on?

This is a very good question that could have many answers.

First of all, there is a steady influx of new employees at the BSFD. As part of the initial and on-going training, new firefighters are required to learn how to safely operate both the ambulances and fire units. The best way to accomplish this is to allow them to operate these vehicles under direct supervision of a more experienced firefighter.

Secondly, the firefighter may be learning a particular part of town by driving that area to familiarize themselves with the streets, dips, curves, etc.

Lastly, the department performs periodic checks of fire hydrants throughout town. This includes checking hydrants for damage, paint condition, location, etc. Citizens can rest assured that all units are available for immediate response to an emergency, if needed. Please call 432-264-2304, for more information.

4. I see ambulances and fire trucks at various businesses about town. Can you explain?

One of the department's many responsibilities is to perform pre-fire plans and safety surveys for our local businesses. We routinely go out to local businesses to assess the building, familiarize ourselves with the layout, and make recommendations to help prevent fires and safety issues. Firefighters perform these assessments on duty, driving the emergency units to the location which allows both the units and personnel to be available for immediate response, if needed. Please call 432-264-2304 for more information.

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Human Resources

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1. Where can I find out about job opportunities?

The City of Big Spring maintains a Job Vacancy List in the Human Resources Office located at:
310 Nolan Street
Big Spring, TX 79720

The Human Resources staff is available to assist you with all phases of the employment process. Please contact us if you would like additional information.

The Human Resources office is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

2. What information can be found on the Job Vacancy List?

The Job Vacancy List contains the following information:
-Job Title
-Job Description
-Minimum Qualifications (education and experience)
-Starting Salary

The Job Vacancy List is updated as needed. For more information, please review the Job Vacancy List.

3. When filling out my employment history, how far back do I have to go?

Applicants must list all employment (including military service) for the past 10 years or for the last 2 employers, whichever is greater, beginning with most recent position and working back. Applicants must explain any gaps in employment greater than 6 months (e.g.: unemployed, enrolled in school, military, retirement, etc.). Include start and end dates along with a brief explanation. Falsification or omission of information shall be grounds for rejection of an application. Please call 432-264-2346 for more information.

4. What type of positions are available with the city?

The city has various types of positions, both entry level and professional, including:
-Administrative
-Office/Clerical
-Para-professional
-Service/Maintenance
-Skilled Craft
-Technicians

Please call 432-264-2346 for more information.

5. What happens to my application after it is submitted?

If you meet the minimum qualifications, your application is forwarded to the appropriate hiring manager. The hiring manager will review applications/resumes and select applicants for interviews. If you are selected for an interview, the Department Supervisor will contact you to schedule an interview. After interviews are conducted, a top candidate is selected. The Human Resources department conducts credential and required license validations, references, and background checks. The Human Resources department will contact the top candidate to schedule an appointment for a conditional job offer. Please call 432-264-2346 for more information.

6. Once I have submitted my application to the Human Resources office, can I use the same application to apply for other positions?

Once you have submitted an application it remains active for a period 90 days from the date of submission. During this time, you may use the application on file to apply for other positions by contacting the Human Resources office. Please call 432-264-2346 for more information.

7. How do I contact the hiring manager?

The Human Resources department does not provide information about the hiring manager(s) to applicants. If the hiring manager wants to interview you, by phone or in person, he/she will contact you directly. Please call 432-264-2346 for more information.

8. How can I check the status of my application?

Applicants may contact Human Resources at 432-264-2346, to check the current status of a position.

9. What benefits are available to city employees?

The City of Big Spring offers a competitive benefits package the includes:
-12 Paid Holidays
-Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
-Dental Insurance
-Life Insurance
-Long Term Disability
-Medical Insurance
-Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
-Texas Municipal Retirement System

Please call 432-264-2346 for more information.

10. What about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

The City of Big Spring does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, treatment or employment in its programs or activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request in the employment process. Applicants with special needs may request additional assistance, or other reasonable accommodations, by calling 432-264-2346, or via email.

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Hydrant Flushing

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1. Why is hydrant flushing necessary?

Hydrant flushing enhances water quality by flushing sediment from the water mains, verifies the proper operation of hydrants and valves, and maintains firefighting capability. For additional information about water quality please call the Public Works department at 432-264-2501.

2. What should I do when the city crews are flushing hydrants in my area?

If you see a crew flushing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or the dishwasher until the flushing is completed. If you see hydrant-flushing crews working in the area, please drive carefully and treat them like any other road construction crew. For additional information about water quality please call the Public Works department at 432-264-2501.

3. What should I do after hydrant flushing?

-If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out full of sediment that causes discoloration. If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes allowing new water to work its way into your pipes. If the water is clear it’s OK to use. If not, wait a few more minutes and check again. In some cases, there may be slight discoloration for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water; it does not affect the taste or water quality.
-Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first. Hot water tanks can hold discolored water for some time after the cold water runs clear.
-If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

For additional information about water quality please call the Public Works department at 432-264-2501.

4. Why does my water look funny after hydrant flushing?

When a hydrant is opened, there will be temporary incidences of discolored water while fine sediment particles are flushed out. There is no health hazard associated with the discolored water. Allow a few hours for discoloration to dissipate. To verify water is clear, run your cold-water tap for a few minutes. For additional information about water quality please call the Public Works department at 432-264-2501.

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Landfill

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1. What does a secured load mean?

A secured load is physically secured to the mobile device. Must include straps, ropes or a tarp.

2. Do we charge for brush?

Yes we do charge for brush and yard waste. The charge is $46.92 a ton for residential and commercial.

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Municipal Court

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1. How can I get information about my citation?

Please read your citation carefully as many of your questions may be answered there. Many of your options require you to prepare before your court date. Waiting until you are standing before the judge may be too late to exercise your options. Remember, a telephone call does not constitute an appearance. Any requests for action on a case must be made in writing or in person. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

2. How should payment be made for my citation?

All payments should be cash or money order. You can also pay your citation online with a credit or debit card.

3. Can I pay my fine in installments?

The Court has a payment schedule available in some cases. Partial payments can be made if the proper request is made and approved. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

4. Where is my ticket filed?

Our court only processes cases that originated with the Big Spring Police Department. If your case was issued by the Howard County Sheriff’s Department or DPS, we will not have that case filed in our court. You will need to contact the JP Court at 432-264-2226 or 432-264-2228.

5. Can the Judge dismiss my ticket?

No. The Judge does not have the authority to dismiss tickets. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

6. What are the requirements for Driving Safety Course?

If you are charged with a traffic offense, you may be eligible to ask the judge to take a driving safety course to dismiss the charge. The request must be made before the appearance date on the citation. It may be made in writing. If you were operating a motorcycle and request to take a driving safety course, you must take a motorcycle operator’s training course. At the time of the request, you must do the following:
(1) Present proof of financial responsibility (liability insurance) and valid Texas Driver's License
(2) Plead guilty or nolo contendere (no contest)
(3) Pay court costs and an administrative fee, if required

The case will be postponed for 180 days to allow you time to complete the course. You must attend a driving safety course that has been approved by the Texas Education Agency or a motorcycle operator’s course approved by the Department of Public Safety. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

7. Am I eligible to request the Driving Safety Course?

You are eligible to take a driving safety course if you:
(1) Have not requested and taken a driving safety course for a traffic offense within the last 12 months
(2) Are not currently taking the course for another violation
(3) Have not committed the offense of speeding 25 miles per hour (mph) over the speed limit
(4) Do not possess a Class CDL Driver's License
(5) Have not committed one of the following offenses:
-Failure to Give Information at Accident Scene
-Leaving Scene of Accident
-Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer
-Reckless Driving
-Passing a School Bus
-An offense in a construction maintenance zone when workers are present

Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

8. What documentation do I need to bring to show the Court that I am eligible for the Driving Safety Course?

You must present a certified copy of your driving record from the Department of Public Safety that shows that you have not had a driving safety course within the 12 months (Requests for certified Driving Records may be made to: LIDR, Texas Department of Public Safety, Box 15999 Austin, TX 78761-5999) and swear to an affidavit that you are not currently taking a driving safety course and that you have not taken one that is not shown on your driving record.

If you do not take the course in the time required and/or fail to present the court with a certificate of completion, the court will notify you to return to court and explain why you failed to show proof of completion. If you have a good reason why you were unable to present your proof within the time required, the judge may, but is not required to, grant you an extension. Your failure to be present at that hearing will result in a warrant for your arrest being issued. An additional charge may also be filed. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

9. I did not have insurance at the time I received my ticket, but I obtained insurance in my name after that. Will my ticket be dismissed?

To have a ticket dismissed for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility (No Insurance), you must provide proof of insurance for the date and time of the citation. If the effective date is the same as the citation date, verification will be required from the insurance company as to the time the policy was purchased.

To have a ticket dismissed for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility (No Insurance) for a vehicle that is owned by someone other than the defendant, the following is required:
1. Proof of insurance on vehicle ticketed.
2. Notarized statement from the owner of the vehicle stating the defendant had his permission to be driving that vehicle on that particular date and time.

Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

10. How do I file a complaint against a Municipal Court staff member?

Any persons with complaints regarding treatment (not appeal of a case) by court staff shall reduce their complaint to writing and shall direct said complaint to the Presiding Judge, Timothy Green. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

11. I just want to tell the Judge my story. Will he/she talk to me?

The Judge is not allowed to discuss the case outside the courtroom and outside the presence of both parties. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

12. I requested a trial. What happens now?

If you enter a plea of not guilty and request a trial, the court will inform you of the trial date set. It is your responsibility to remember this date and see your case through to final disposition.

All appeals and motions for new trial shall be in conformity with the requirements set forth by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure as it is interpreted by the appellate courts. The Big Spring Municipal Court is not a court of record; therefore, all appeals are conducted in the Howard County courts of law. These trials are trials "de novo" which means that the entire case is re-tried as if the trial in Municipal Court never occurred. In order to preserve the right to appeal, a proper and timely appeal bond must be filed with the Municipal Court, that is in conformity with the requirements set forth in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

13. Do I have to get a lawyer to go to court?

No. Municipal Court does not appoint a lawyer. You may retain one or represent yourself. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

14. Can I perform community service in lieu of paying a fine?

Municipal court allows some individuals to perform community service in lieu of paying a fine. Depending on the individual and the case, a defendant may ask the Judge for community service. The Judge may allow a portion of or the entire fine to be worked off. Community service is at the discretion of the Judge. All community service programs are to be at nonprofit organizations and will be well supervised. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

15. What is a Deferred Disposition?

Deferred disposition is allowing a person to pay a fee, be on probation, meet the requirements of the Judge and having their case dismissed. Deferred cases are the Judge’s discretion only. There are no statues that require a Judge to give a defendant deferred disposition on any case. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

16. What are the rules regarding juveniles and Municipal Court?

The municipal court has jurisdiction over juveniles (16 years or younger) charged with Class C misdemeanor offenses except public intoxication. All juveniles are required to appear in open court for all proceedings in their cases. The parent of a juvenile charged in municipal court must be present in court with their child. Juveniles who fail to appear in court may have an additional charge of failure to appear filed against them. Juveniles who fail to appear or who fail to pay their fine will be reported to the Department of Public Safety who will suspend or deny issuance of a driver’s license. Juveniles who disobey a court order may be found in contempt and assessed a fine not to exceed $500 or referred to juvenile court for contempt. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

17. If there is a mistake on the ticket does that make it invalid?

Even though the original ticket may be dismissed, police have 2 years to refile the case. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

18. Is this charge going to revoke my probation?

The Judge in Municipal Court does not know the requirements of your probation, therefore they would not know. Please contact your probation officer. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

19. Is this ticket going on my driving record?

All citations under 6701d of the traffic code will appear on your driving record. This includes all moving violations and some others. Please call 432-264-2530 for more information.

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Permits / Inspections

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1. When do I need a permit?

Whenever you are going to start a project, contact the Building Inspection Department to verify if permits are required. This will not only help in your decision making process, but also may save time and money by avoiding potential non-compliance with various City Codes and Ordinances. For more information, please call the Permits Department at (432)-264-2504.

• Any owner, authorized agent, or contractor who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation which is regulated by the technical codes, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permit for the work. Minor repairs may be made with the approval of the Building Official without a permit, provided that such repairs shall not violate any of the provisions of the technical codes.

Some projects that require permits include, but are not limited to:

• Roofs
• Fences
• Gas Lines
• Water/Sewer Lines
• Water Heaters, Water Softeners
• Swimming Pools, Spa
• Siding
• Remodels, Additions
• Decks/Porches
• Carports
• Accessory Structures (e.g. garages, storage structures, etc.)
• Demolition

Cosmetic projects that do not require permits include:

• House Painting
• Wallpaper
• Carpets
• Windows
• Doors
• Cabinets

2. Do I need a permit to build a carport?

Yes, a permit is required to build any structure on your property. All front, side and back yard carports require a permit. An application shall be submitted to the Permit Clerk, to be reviewed by the Building Official. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

3. Do I need a permit to have siding installed on my house?

Yes, a permit is required for the siding or covering the eaves of your home. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

4. Do I need a permit if I re-roof my house?

Yes, a permit is required to re-roof your house. The standard permit fee is $25 for the first $3,000 dollars. If you are a commercial contractor, then landfill fees will apply. Landfill fees are $46.92 per ton. You must have your building permit to dump at the City Landfill. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

5. Do I need a permit to change the water heater in my home?

Yes, a permit is required for the removal and installation of all water heaters and storage tanks do require a permit. This will ensure that pressure and temperature valves, gas vents, gas valves, gas lines, and drain lines are installed properly. On electric water heaters, a permit will ensure that the wire size and breakers are of adequate size as per Plumbing and Electrical Code. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

6. What if I want to encroach my front and side yard setbacks?

If you want to exceed your building line setbacks, you must make application to the Building Official. The application will be denied and at that point a meeting will be set for the Zoning Board to review the application. The cost for the meeting will be $50. This fee is non-refundable and will pay for the cost to send letters to everyone within 200 feet of your property line. Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

7. What Technical Codes are currently used by the City of Big Spring?

2012 International Building Code
2012 International Plumbing Code
2012 International Mechanical Code
2012 International Gas Code
2011 National Electrical Code

Please call 432-264-2504 for more information.

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Water

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1. How do I disconnect/terminate my water service?

You must sign a disconnect order in the Water Office located at 501 Runnels. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You must present a valid ID to disconnect service. Please call 432-264-2540 for more information.

2. How do I transfer my water service?

Customers can transfer service at the water office by completing a transfer service request. The account being transferred must be current. There will be a $15 transfer service fee which will be applied on the customer's next bill. You must present a valid ID to transfer service. Please call 432-264-2540 for more information.

3. What if I cannot pay my bill before the disconnect date?

Customers can request an extension in the water office. Extensions must be requested before the disconnect date. Extensions are for up to 10 additional days. Please call 432-264-2540 for more information.

4. What if my water is disconnected for non-payment?

Accounts scheduled for disconnection will be disconnected the morning of the disconnect date if payment has not been received by 8:30 a.m. the day of or if an extension has not been requested. To re-establish service, the entire bill plus a $20 service re-connection fee must be paid. Payment on disconnected accounts must be made by cash or credit card. No checks will be accepted. Water service will be turned back on between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. the day payment is received. Please call 432-264-2540 for more information.

5. I have a question about my bill. Who do I call?

Contact Water Office staff at 432-264-2540.

6. Can my water meter be inaccurate?

Yes. Customers can request a meter reread by contacting the Water Office at 432-264-2542.

7. Where does our water come from?

Big Spring water is supplied by the Colorado Water Municipal Water District (CRMWD). It comes from 1 or a combination of 3 reservoirs:
-Lake O.H. Ivie
-Lake J.B. Thomas
-Lake EV. Spence

Please call 432-264-2542 for more information.

8. Is our water safe to drink?

Absolutely. We are proud to report that our water meets or surpasses all federal and state primary drinking water quality requirements and standards. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has assessed our systems and determined that our water is safe to drink. We are confident that the water processed by our treatment plant and our personnel is the safest water we have ever produced. The City of Big Spring is committed to providing our residents with the safest and most reliable water supply. Please call 432-264-2542 for more information.

9. How is our wastewater treated?

Our wastewater is treated by utilizing pumping, screening, grit removal, primary settling, trickling filter and activated sludge process followed by secondary settling disinfection, disinfectant removal and aeration. Please call 432-264-2542 for more information.

10. How much waste can the wastewater treatment plant handle?

The plant is designed to treat an average flow of 3.8 million gallons per day, but can handle peak hour wet weather flows of 11.2 million gallons per day. Please call 432-264-2542 for more information.

11. Where does the water go after treatment?

Plant effluent (fully treated liquids) are discharged into Beals Creek, while solids generated by the treatment process are treated and disposed of at the city operated landfill. Please call 432-264-2542 for more information.

12. Who inspects the city's wastewater treatment plant?

The City of Big Spring must meet very strict levels of treatment standards regulated by Federal and State government agencies prior to releasing it into the environment. Please call 432-264-2542 for more information.